I had only had it six days, four hours and 37 minutes (not that I was counting… yes, I am gutted).

The accident was totally my fault and I apologised to the cyclist. Thankfully, he didn’t get hurt. He was also a really nice chap and said that because his bicycle was really old, not to worry about an extra scratch or two. I reported the accident to my insurer and told them it was my fault.

I have fully comprehensive insurance and just want my bike fixed. However, my insurer then passed my details on to a claims management company, who told me I can have a free hire bike and there is a ‘pot of money’ that will pay me out. I have said no, but the claims management company said I can sue the bicycle rider, but I don’t see how and I will not lie.

The claims management company said it will be ok as all these cases settle without going to court.

Answer

It sounds like you are an honest person. Don’t change for this absolute bunch of snakes.

Firstly, if you have fully compensative insurance and you want to claim for your damaged bike, then speak to your actual insurer, i.e., the underwriter and not your insurance broker or the claims management company, etc. You paid for insurance and they have to pay out if you claim. It’s as simple as that.

As for the claims management company, make a complaint to them, whoever put you in contact with them and the Financial Ombudsman Service Limited (they have been set up by Parliament to sort out complaints about financial businesses) as well.

The behaviour of this claims management company is unacceptable. There is no ‘pot of money’ waiting for you as the accident was your fault. Whatever you do, do not let this claims management company talk you into lying or signing any false documentation. It is illegal, simple as that. Anyone found deliberately lying to win a claim could get banged up in prison.

Andrew ‘Chef’ Prendergast

Motorcycle Monthly July 2019